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"Tightwad Denial" (A Look At The Condition Affecting Many)

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You are doing your part to be a frugal, healthy Tightwad. You take care of your money, spend wisely, and are learning more and more all the time. However, it seems that you have encountered a negative, overspending individual. This is a real experience, not a hallucination, and you are not alone. Don't lose heart little Toddler, Trooper, Teenager or Tigerrrr!

The Disease: There are many people, I feel, who are in something I call:Tightwad Denial. There are many complexities associated with this mind altering disease, but generally the most universal symptoms include: closed mindedness, confusion, an unexplained need to overspend, nausea, headache and feelings of hopelessness. I am researching this further and am finding that not only are those inflicted with "T.D." subject to nausea, headache and feelings of hopelessness; but they can also transmit these to others that are around them, we as "Tightwads" (that they are so in fear of), are also not immune.

Now That We Know What T.D. is, What is it that Causes This? At this time, it is still somewhat of a mystery. Some theories include; genetic make-up, environment, chemical imbalance, and birth order. Often times we find that even the sufferer of "T.D". does not know.

Is There a Cure For "Tightwad Denial"? We have had amazing success in many of our research participants. We have found that with gentle, non-threating and gradual exposure to Tightwaddery beliefs and practices; allowance and acceptance of "Tightwaddery" could be achieved. This can be a slow and grueling process, and should not be rushed. Results do vary, as do treatment, and recovery.

What If I Have a Loved One That Is Infected? We strongly advise you to get support. It can be hard when anyone we love is ill. Being surrounded and supported by others battling the same issues proves therapeutic for many. One resource for help is at http://www.parentsplace.com. They have a message board that caters well to this sort of problem called, "Frugal Living". In addition to that support waterfall, you can always join us here, in the discussion area, at the bottom of each and every "Today's Tightwad" article.

What Inspired Your Crusade And Diagnosis of "Tightwad Denial"? I too, have friends and loved ones infected with this devasting cranial virus. I was astounded, and perplexed by the others I have met who also have loved ones/friends with undiagnosed "T.D".

Can I/Should I Try to Avoid Those Infected with "T.D."? Unfortunately you cannot tell if someone is inflicted with Tightwad Denial just by looking at them. Sometimes Tightwads can keep their Tightwaddery a secret, and do not even know that they live with, or associate with someone infected by "T.D." We advise that you just go about your daily life as normal, and if you encounter someone with "T.D." that you be sympathetic, and patient; they are probably not yet aware of their condition, and have enough complications due to this now, and in the future. After all, we "Tightwads" are EVERYWHERE these days!